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19 Best Things to Do in Grand Turk on a Cruise [Port Guide]

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If you’re visiting Grand Turk on a cruise, you’re in luck. Grand Turk is a favorite Caribbean cruise port for many cruise travelers!

With soft white sand and exquisitely clear blue water, the islands that makeup Turks and Caicos (which include Grand Turk) are known for phenomenal snorkeling and scuba diving.

In this post, I’ll share the best things to do in Grand Turk on a cruise, including shore excursions as well as inexpensive or free activities. You’ll also learn everything you need to know about visiting the Grand Turk cruise port for the day and get answers to commonly asked questions. 

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

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Grand Turk Cruise Ports 

The two-berth dock at the Grand Turk Cruise Center is the primary port for cruise ships. The Cruise Center was designed by Carnival Cruise Lines in 2006 to be a full-service destination. When you dock here, you are steps away from a gorgeous public beach, a free swimming pool, and numerous restaurants, bars, and excellent duty-free shopping. 

Many passengers will enjoy their entire port day at Grand Turk within the Cruise Center. 

What Cruise Passengers Need to Know About Grand Turk Cruise Port

Upon exiting your ship, you are steps away from the beach. On the left side of the pier, the first section of blue chairs is free to use. There are plenty of palm trees, however if you plan to spend the day at the Cruise Center beach, you’ll want to get there early. 

There are many shops, restaurants, and bars located within the Cruise Center boundaries, including the largest Margaritaville in the world.

The official currency in Grand Turk is the U.S. Dollar (USD). 

English is the official language of Grand Turk island. 

Grand Turk island is located in the Eastern Time Zone (ET). 

High temperatures in the Turks and Caicos Islands hover around 80 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. The hottest months are July, August, and September when the average high temperature is 89 degrees F and the lows are 80 degrees F. 

The water temperature near Grand Turk island ranges anywhere from 3-6 degrees lower than the high temperature on land.

Getting Around Grand Turk

This small island is mostly known for white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. If you decide to leave the Cruise Center, there are a few different ways to explore this little island. 

The Grand Turk Cruise Center is easily walkable on foot and wheel chair accessible. If you decide to explore beyond the center, it is not recommended that you explore Grand Turk island on foot. The lack of sidewalks and spotty signage makes the island difficult (and dangerous) to walk. 

Public Transit

There is no public transportation available on Grand Turk island. 

Taxi cabs are one of the primary modes of transportation here. There are taxi cab stands as you exit the Cruise Center terminal.

Golf carts are an easy way and fun way to get around Grand Turk Island. Venture outside of the Cruise Center gates for the most golf cart rental options. 

Electric Bikes (EBikes)

There are a few eBike rental companies right outside of the Cruise Center terminal. Because the island of Grand Turk is so small, an eBike is an ideal way to enjoy the sunshine and fresh ocean air as you see the sights.

Rentals include a bike lock, helmets, and a map for easy navigation. Just beware of wild donkeys!

Car Rentals

Many streets on the island are one-way and parking can be limited, so renting a car may not be your best option for getting around. 

However, there are cars for rent, including Jeeps. Look for rental options near the taxi stands as you exit the Cruise Center. 

Best Grand Turk Shore Excursions

Grand Turk is the largest of the Turks Islands that make up Turks and Caicos. The island is small, measuring only 6.9 square miles, however it has both historic and natural wonders that cruise passengers will enjoy exploring.

Here are some of the main attractions you can find when you port in Grand Turk. 

1. Go Shopping in the Grand Turk Cruise Center 

The Cruise Center has an astounding 45,000 square feet of shopping including Diamonds International, Ron Jon Surf Shop, Tanzanite International, and Colombian Emeralds. There are also locally crafted souvenirs and gifts available to purchase as well as 10,000 square feet of duty-free shopping . 

If you love to shop-until-you-drop, the Cruise Center is a convenient location with many unique offerings. All stores at the Grand Turk Cruise Center accept credit cards.  

2. Relax by the Pool 

The Grand Turk Cruise Center is home to one of the largest swimming pools in the Caribbean. There is no charge to use the swimming pool and loungers, but it is “first come-first serve” and a popular attraction for cruisers. 

There are private air-conditioned pool cabanas available to rent through your cruise line. However, there are no towels provided, so be sure to bring your own from the ship. 

3. Spend some time in Margaritaville

The Grand Turk Cruise Center is home to the Caribbean’s largest Jimmy Buffett ’s Margaritaville restaurant, bar, and retail shop. 

Cruisers could easily spend the whole day in Margaritaville enjoying the laid-back, Caribbean vibes. Be sure to try the nachos, burgers, jerk salmon and conch fritters, and swim up to the bar for a signature Margarita. 

Related: 50 Best Jimmy Buffett Quotes – The Ultimate Collection

4. Catch a Wave on the Grand Turk FlowRider

In the Cruise Center, near Margaritaville, you’ll find a self-contained water attraction called the FlowRider. High-pressure water jets shoot a thin layer of water moving over a cushioned surface creating an artificial wave perfect for surfing, bodyboarding, or kneeboarding. 

You can schedule this hour-long, shared excursion through your cruise line, and don’t forget to purchase pictures of your epic wave. If you’re cruising with teenagers , this could be a fun port activity!

5. Enjoy a Catamaran Excursion

Starting from the Cruise Center, you’ll board a catamaran and set sail for a dreamy deserted beach. 

Enjoy the smooth sailing catamarans are known for, as well as stops for snorkeling along the way. After spending time relaxing on the beach, you’ll sail back to the Cruise Center and enjoy a complimentary beverage. 

6. Have an Off-Road ATV Adventure

If you’re looking for a non-water excursion on Grand Turk, you can see another side of the island on an ATV tour. 

Most ATV excursions leave from right outside of the Cruise Center. You’ll be outfitted with a helmet and goggles and your own four-wheeled all-terrain vehicle.

ATV excursions last around an hour and a half. Your guide will take you past local attractions including the Ridge Trail, Grand Turk lighthouse, and the North Creek Bird watching area.  

7. Try Conch Fritters at Jack’s Shack

Located about 500 yards up the beach from the Cruise Center, this restaurant is a favorite of both locals and tourists. Besides a gorgeous setting right on the beach, Jack’s Shack is famous for their conch fritters, jerk chicken and rum punch. 

If you purchase something at Jack’s you can use their free wi-fi. They also have beach chairs and umbrellas available to rent if you want to relax on this beach. 

8. Whale Watch at the Grand Turk Lighthouse

Built in the 1850s to help ships navigate the shallow reefs at the northern end of the island, this historic building is the only lighthouse on Grand Turk island.

The lighthouse is included in many tour itineraries. However, if you want to go on your own it is an easy 20-minute taxi ride, golf cart or bicycle ride to get there. In February and March, this is also a popular spot for whale watching. 

9. Swim with Stingrays in Gibbs Cay

Gibbs Cay is a tiny, uninhabited island on the eastern side of Grand Turk. It has some of the most beautiful beaches and the best diving sites the Turks and Caicos islands have to offer. 

Located a 1-mile boat ride away from Grand Turk island, the best way to visit stingrays in Gibbs Cay is through a tour. They will provide information and instructions to ensure your safety.

Many tours include additional stops to snorkel and some have a unique opportunity to dive for conch and feast on fresh conch salad. You won’t want to miss out on the stunning beaches and chance to interact with marine life at Gibbs Cay. 

10. Relax at the Governor’s Beach

Most cruisers use a Grand Turk port day as a beach day, and there are plenty of picture-perfect beaches to choose from on this Island. If you want to venture from the more crowded beach at the Cruise Center, Governor’s Beach is a short distance away. 

Your best option is to grab a quick taxi which should cost around $4 per person each way. Governor’s Beach is perfect for sunbathing or swimming, however, the absence of reef in this area means this isn’t the beach for snorkeling or scuba diving. There are usually vendors selling cold drinks and souvenirs here. 

11. Try Power Snorkeling

If you want the magic of snorkeling with a little more speed and adventure, power snorkeling is an exciting excursion available in Grand Turk. 

The power snorkel is a lightweight, underwater propulsion device that helps you to cover greater distances, get past rougher currents, and view more underwater creatures. 

Power snorkel excursions depart out of the cruise center and include transportation to and from a snorkeling beach on Grand Turk, and all of the equipment you’ll need for this unique snorkeling adventure. 

12. Learn About Local History at the Caicos National Museum

If you want to learn more about the intriguing history of the Turks & Caicos Islands, you might want to visit the national museum located on Grand Turk. 

Located in the lovely Guinep House, built during the colonial era, the museum is small in size, yet full of fascinating exhibits.  It is a great place to learn about the splashdown of John Glenn’s Mercury spacecraft to the south of Grand Turk, the Lucayan Indians indigenous to the islands, the salt trade, and the oldest shipwreck in the northern hemisphere dating back to the 1500s and located in the waters off Grand Turk. 

The museum is about a 12-minute taxi ride north of the Cruise Center. Plan on about an hour and a half for your visit. 

13. Enjoy solitude at Pillory beach

This idyllic beach is worth a visit if you want to get away from the cruise ship crowds. Pillory is less than a 15-minute taxi ride from the Cruise Center. There used to be a resort here (Bohio Dive Resort), that is currently being renovated. 

The bottom can be rocky, so bring your water shoes .

Related: What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise

14. Snorkel or Dive at the Grand Turk Wall

Grand Turk island is the site of the world’s third-largest coral reef structure. Located approximately 1km offshore of the west side of the island, the Grand Turk Wall offers snorkelers and scuba divers the chance to see colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, barracuda, reef and hammerhead sharks, rays, and more.

To visit this natural phenomenon, you’ll need to join a dive boat tour. There are several cruise excursions that offer tools for snorkeling and diving at “the wall.” 

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15. Visit Historic Cockburn Town

Cockburn Town is the oldest permanent settlement in Turks and Caicos. A visit to this town offers a peek into the island’s history with attractions like Her Majesty’s Prison, the old Victoria Library, and the vibrant green post office 

You can spend time enjoying the colonial-style buildings along historic Duke Street and visiting local shops. If you want to visit historic Cockburn, it is located about a 10-minute taxi or golf cart ride from the Cruise Center.

16. Snorkel at Cockburn Town Beach

The white sand and calm, crystal-clear waters at Cockburn Town Beach are perfect for snorkeling. This beach is located near the historical town, and several tours combine sightseeing in Cockburn Town and snorkeling at the beach, the perfect combination of history and relaxation.

If you don’t want to do a sightseeing tour, you can catch a cab straight to Cockburn Town Beach, about a 10-minute ride from the Cruise Center.

Related: 10 Things to Never Do in Cruise Ports

17. Peek into Prison history at Her Majesty’s Prison (H.M. Prison)

This waterfront prison complex was built in the 1830s and was operational as Grand Turk’s only prison until 1994.

Take a self-guided tour through the prison, which housed both men and women and as many as 60 prisoners. Learn about the day-to-day life of inmates as well as the mass escapes during the Great Hurricane of 1866.

18. Horseback Ride on the Beach

If you like horses, Grand Turk offers horseback tours that include an exciting ride on the beach. After a historical guided tour through Cockburn Town, you can choose to ride your horses straight into the ocean for a cooldown you’ll both enjoy.

Be sure to wear long pants that can get wet, and cover up with a long-sleeved shirt, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen.

19. See Humpback Whales Up Close on a Boat Tour

Between January and April, Humpback whales migrate close to Grand Turk island as they move to the warm Caribbean waters to mate and give birth. 

You can book a whale watching boat tour, departing near the Cruise Center, or head up to the Grand Turk Lighthouse for a chance to view these majestic creatures during migration season. 

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Grand Turk Cruise Port Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit grand turk .

The weather is great year-round, however, the best time to visit Grand Turk island is between December and April. Hurricane season in the Atlantic runs from June through November. During hurricane season, visitor numbers tend to be lower and some smaller businesses may close temporarily.

How far away is downtown from the Grand Turk cruise port? 

The Grand Turk Cruise Center is steps away from the cruise ship ports. There is plenty to do within the Cruise Center including a pristine beach, a swimming pool, bars, restaurants, and duty-free shopping. 

If you want to head to nearby Cockburn Town, a 10-minute taxi or golf cart ride will get you to this historical city. 

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Final Thoughts On Things to Do in Grand Turk Cruise Port

Grand Turk is known for its soft, white sand beaches and clear blue waters. Many cruise passengers make Grand Turk a beach and pool day for good reason. This location has a number of easily accessible beach options, including a beach as you step off the cruise ship.

Have you been to Grand Turk yet? What was your favorite part of this small island?

Happy Cruising!

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Free/Cheap Things to Do in Grand Turk on a Cruise + Tips, & What to Know

Sitting roughly 600 miles southeast of Miami and about 350 miles northwest of Puerto Rico, Grand Turk enjoys a spot that’s a world away and nestled in some of the most beautiful water on the planet.

The island itself is small — only about six miles long and two miles wide. And sitting near the southern tip is the Grand Turk Cruise Center.

This port area features everything that a cruise passenger could want to enjoy the day, from a pool to a beautiful beach to easy access to the rest of the island. And it’s all there for passengers alone to enjoy, literally in the shadow of the cruise ship in some cases.

For what to expect on visiting Grand Turk, keep reading.

Grand Turk Port Features & What to Expect

The first thing that you’ll notice when you visit the Grand Turk port is that your ship is close to the beach… as in real close. The dock sits out only about 400 feet from shore, meaning the ship towers over the port area.

Walk down the dock and you’ll enter the port area through a duty-free store. Exit the store, and you’ll enter the main plaza of the port area.

Like most cruise ports in the Caribbean, Grand Turk features a dedicated port area that’s enclosed and offers a number of amenities to cruise passengers.

In the center area surrounding the plaza are a number of shops, selling everything from t-shirts to an actual Starbucks location. If you’re wanting a souvenir to remember your trip, you’re sure to find something here.

Head to the right and you’ll pass through some shops before getting to an outdoor restaurant/bar (Beach Whale) and a more “beachy” area where you can relax. There’s also a large sculpture of a whale that makes a fun photo.

If you instead head to the left as you enter the port, you’ll wind through the buildings until you reach Margaritaville Grand Turk. This spot features the famous restaurant, but also a massive pool with thumping music in a party atmosphere. Near this spot at the back of the port is also where you’ll find the port exit to grab a taxi to explore the rest of Grand Turk.

No matter which direction you head, you’ll always be within a few steps of the beach that runs the entire length of the cruise port. Frankly, it’s one of the most beautiful beaches you’ll ever see. The sand is a soft, white powder with electric blue water. And the ship overlooks the entire area making for a one-of-a-kind scene. Just know that some areas of the water have a rockier bottom (more details in the tips section below).

Free or Cheap Things to Do in Grand Turk

To be honest, given the small size of Grand Turk there isn’t a ton of variety of things to do like you might find elsewhere. Still, there’s plenty to keep you entertained for a day in port without spending a lot of money.

Hit the Beach

Without a doubt the biggest draw at Grand Turk is the beach that sits right at the cruise ship. It’s beautiful, wide, and runs a nice distance so there is a spot for everyone and it’s free. However, its popularity can mean it gets crowded, especially close to the ship.

The area north of the pier (to the left as you enter) features a sandier bottom that’s more forgiving on your feet. The area south of the pier sees smaller crowds, but you’ll also want some water shoes if you venture out into the water. There are also rentals available for everything from snorkel gear to clamshell chairs to give you a little shade.

One other alternative? There are excursions offered to other beaches from the cruise line. You can also catch a cab to other beaches around the island, which will be less crowded.

Hit the Pool

If the beach is the biggest draw at Grand Turk, then the pool in the port area is a close second. Here, there is a massive pool that circles around, complete with loungers. It’s right next to Margaritaville, so you can sit and relax (even hangout at the swim-up bar) and get food and drinks served. There are also rentals available for things like umbrellas and cabanas.

Just know that here the atmosphere is lively with music pumping. If you’re thinking of a quiet, relaxing time by the pool, that’s not really the case.

Hit the Water

If you’re looking to get out of the port area, one of the popular things to do is to get out on the water. During our stop, there were excursions available that took passengers out on catamarans for snorkeling tours, often with drinks afterward while on the boat. This part of the world has some of the most beautiful water anywhere, so getting out and enjoying it is well worth the cost of the excursion.

Hit the Town

Want to go explore on your own? It’s easy enough to do with an inexpensive cab ride. The city on Grand Turk is called Cockburn Town and if you want a feel for the “real” Grand Turk, it’s a neat place to visit, albeit a bit spread out. A good spot to start your visit is the Turks & Caicos National Museum .

As for cab rides, the price is set based on zones. The cruise port is in Zone A, and downtown is in Zone B. The trip costs $5 per person one way. It’s only $9 per person to go the entire length of the island.

Get Your Starbucks Fill

If you just can’t live without your Starbucks, then Grand Turk is the spot for you. While many cruise ships offer Starbucks beverages on board, finding them in port is usually another story. But the port area features a full-fledged Starbucks (painted a very noticeable pink). The next closest location? That’s in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, about 200 miles away.

Take a Turn on the Flowrider

One unique feature of Royal Caribbean cruise ships is the Flowrider — a never-ending “wave” that you can surf or boogie board. At the Grand Turk port there is a land-based Flowrider that you can ride for a fee (sorry, it’s not free!). It’s right next to the pool on the north end of the port area. If you have kids or teens, it’s definitely something they’ll want to check out.

Get a Picture With John Glenn

One of the claims to fame for this area was that it was the spot where astronaut John Glenn splashed down after orbiting the earth. That’s why on the port’s southern side you’ll see an area with some information about the NASA program, a model rocket, a sculpture of the capsule splashing down, and a statue of John Glenn in his spacesuit that you can get a picture with.

Tips & Things to Know About Visiting

If you’re visiting Grand Turk, there are some tips and things to know that can make your trip even better. We mentioned some of these above, but in case you missed them, we’ve included them here as well.

Go Down in the Morning for Your Picture of the Ship

By far the most unique thing about Grand Turk is that the ship is unbelievably close to shore. It means there’s a great photo opportunity of the ship right at the beach (also docked at a perfect angle). But one suggestion is to get your photos around mid-morning. Not only will the beach crowds be thinner, but the morning sun will be shining right on the ship, making the colors pop.

The Best Beach is North of the Dock

The beach is phenomenal at Grand Turk and the biggest draw for the majority of passengers. You’ll see people up and down the shore, but if you want the best spot then we’d suggest heading north of the dock (to the left as you face the shore from the ship). This area is sandy from the beach out into the water. The bottom is rockier on the southern side of the pier.

The Beach Is Quieter to the South

While the water to the south side of the pier is rockier, the beach itself is just as nice with lots of sand. And for those wanting a little more space and not as many people, this area is ideal. Head as far down the path as you can go and you’ll find a large group of loungers (near the whale sculpture) with hardly any other people — even on busy days in port.

Taxi Rates Are Set

If you plan to head into town, then a cab is easy. There’s a taxi stand at the port exit and you’ll see the set rates explained. The island is broken into four zones (A, B, C, and D). The cruise port is in Zone A. The rate from the cruise port to the other zones is set at:

• Zone A: $4 per person
• Zone B: $5 per person
• Zone C: $8 per person
• Zone D: $9 per person

Beach Rentals Are Available

To the north side of the pier, you’ll see a stand for beach rentals. While loungers are first-come, first-served, anything else that you need can be rented. This includes snorkel gear, foam mats, clamshell loungers that offer shade, and you can also buy sunscreen and water. Need other items like a cold drink or a snack? There’s a small convenience store right next to the beach rental booth.

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Grand Turk – Turks & Caicos

Last updated on January 31st, 2024 at 04:27 pm

Experience the untouched beauty of Grand Turk, a hidden gem in the Turks & Caicos. Discover historic landmarks like the Grand Turk Lighthouse, snorkel in the pristine coral reefs, or relax on the idyllic beaches. Immerse yourself in the friendly local culture, savor fresh seafood, and let the tranquil vibes of Grand Turk wash over you, leaving you refreshed and rejuvenated.

Check out these excursions in Grand Turk .

This would be really hard to take: On average, Grand Turk has 350 days of sunshine each year. The temperature in Turks & Caicos ranges from 75° F to 95° year round.

The US dollar is the official currency on the island. The stores located at the cruise center accept credit cards and many hotels, restaurants and shops will also accept traveler’s checks. There are ATMs scattered around the island. The closest one to the cruise center is about a mile away.

There is a Scotiabank ATM located at the entrance to the airport which is less than a mile from the cruise center. There is also a First Caribbean Bank ATM at the Cruise Center right next to the Harley Davidson store.

Wireless Internet:

There are several areas on Grand Turk where there is free WiFi access. Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville, Froot’s, Jack’s Shack, White Sands Beach Resort and the Victoria Public Library.

The island’s primary language is English. You will also hear Spanish and Creole widely spoken on the island.

Where You Dock in Grand Turk – Turks & Caicos

The main event in Grand Turk is the Grand Turk Cruise Center built by Carnival Cruise Lines for its passengers. Situated on the southernmost part of the island, it is a 13-acre complex that has everything you want, as long as everything you want is the typical amenities found in a cruise line constructed park – beach, pool, Margaritaville, FlowRider, duty free shops.

The pier walk from the docked ship to the cruise center is about 400 feet.

The Turks & Caicos Tourist Board has a manned information kiosk located near the tour and taxi departure area. Below is a map of the facility:

If you want to venture outside of the cruise center, and get an idea of what Turks and Caicos is really about, it’s about 3 miles to the historic downtown, but the tourism board advises to not walk, but take transportation instead.

Getting Around Grand Turk – Turks & Caicos

Don’t plan on walking to town, and this comes from the tourism board. It is not advised as it is about 3 miles, it is a very hot walk and there are no sidewalks.

The bus stops that you see around the island are areas where students grab a shuttle. There is no public bus system.

Island Trams

Island Trams Limited has a fleet of open trams that offers tours of Grand Turk Island. Each tour is about two hours. On the tram tour you will see the cruise center, Cockburn Town, West Road Market, the Lighthouse and Sugar Beach Club. The tours have a guide that will give you a history and information about each site you visit. The cost is about $25. The schedule and number of trams can be somewhat erratic, so if you miss one tour, it might be two hours before the next one comes along.

The taxis in Grand Turk are not metered and taxi fares are set in advance. However, even their tourism board says that these statutory fares may not always be adhered to. Confirm your trip and price with your taxi driver before departing the port. Taxis are located at the Grand Turk Cruise Center.

Rental Cars And More

There is a car rental service – Island Auto Rental –  in the Grand Turk Cruise Center. It is located near the tour and taxi departure area. You can also rent jeeps, golf carts, scooters, 4 X 4 buggies and ATV’s. There is very little off-road driving on Grand Turk, so take that into consideration when making your choice.

Do not drive on the beach or wetland areas. This causes damage to these environments.

You will need to have a valid photo driver’s license and a major credit card. You must be 21 years of age. The minimum age to rent a golf cart is 18. The car service may also require a 50% deposit. Be aware that donkeys, ponies and cattle roam free on the island. Many of the narrow roads in Cockburn town are one way.

Driving is on the left hand side of the road. Seat belts are mandatory and the maximum speed limit is 40 mph on the island.

Here are two rental car services on Grand Turk:

Tony’s Car Rental (cars, scooters, snorkeling gear)

Sunshine Auto Rental  +1 649-348-0387

Shopping In Grand Turk – Turks & Caicos

The shopping opportunities in Cockburn Town are limited. The stores there are geared mainly to those who live on Grand Turk. There is Gibbs Variety Store, Quality Food Mart and Been’s Variety Store.  Cee’s Grocery is the one most of the islanders use for everyday needs.

The largest shopping area is located in the cruise center. It is a 45,000 square foot shopping center. Within this center is also a duty-free shop.

The merchants in the cruise center include:

• Colombian Emeralds
• Effy Jewelers
• Goodmark Jewelers
• Ron Jon Surf Shop
• Diamonds International
• Piranaha Joes
• Dizzy Donkey
• Silver Emporium
• Tanzanite International
• Joelle & Jake (Life is Good)
• Indigo Pearls
• Margaritaville’s The Trading Post (pictured below)

Dining In Grand Turk – Turks & Caicos

According to their own guide,  Grand Turk Restaurants and Dining offers a limited yet interesting selection of restaurants. When a cruise ship is not in port, these restaurants are not open.

Because the main visitors to the island are cruise ship passengers there for a few hours, lunch is the main focus for restaurants. If you will be in port at dinner time, it is best to call ahead and make reservations.

Most of the restaurants in Cockburn are located on Duke Street.

Jack’s Shack Grand Turk : In the Cruise Center

This island cuisine uses Jamaican and local spices. Some secret family recipes make their signature Jerk chicken a favorite. Also on the menu is local fish, burgers, cracked conch, hot dogs, conch fritters, french fries and peas and rice. When available they have grouper and lobster. It’s a popular spot, so get there early after you dock!

Margaritaville:  In the Cruise Center

This is the one and the same Jimmy Buffett’s trademark restaurant. It is also the main restaurant at the cruise center. There is a restaurant, bar and tourist shop all in one spot. The menu is American favorites with a Caribbean and Mexican slant. You will find burgers, sandwiches, seafood, jerk fish and chicken, nachos and the chef’s special “Cheeseburger in Paradise.”

Turks Head Inne : Duke Street, Cockburn Town

This hotel has an on-site restaurant that offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. Coconut French toast, or an omelet are good options. Fresh caught fish dominates the menu for lunch and dinner. They also have salads, sandwiches, chicken wrap, conch bites and a fusion burger.

Sandbar Restaurant – Manta House : Duke Street, Cockburn Town

Right on the water just a few steps from Manta House, this beach bar is open for lunch and dinner Sunday through Friday. On the menu (when in season) is fresh caught grouper, lobster, conch, wahoo and mahi mahi. The Sand Bar also offers burgers, shrimp quesadillas, chicken and ribs and peas and rice.

Osprey Beach Hotel : Duke Street,  Cockburn Town

The Osprey Beach Hotel has a restaurant that offers poolside dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner, all with a fantastic view of the ocean. The menu changes daily but offers fresh fish as well as steaks, lamb, chicken, pasta and local dishes and salads. The Birdcage Bar has beer and cocktails.

The Salt Raker Inn : Duke Street, Cockburn Town Cockburn

Tucked into a courtyard behind the Salt Raker Inn is the Secret Garden restaurant. Here you will find simply prepared local dishes like grilled grouper, snapper, conch and (when in season) lobster. They also have burgers and fish and chips and ice-cold beer.

Things To Do in Grand Turk – Turks & Caicos

There is no charge to use the facilities (the pool, beach and loungers) at the Grand Turk Cruise Center. Snorkel Equipment, beach floats and shade “clam shells” can be rented at the Beach Rental Hut on the beach. Private air-conditioned pool cabanas are also available for rent through your cruise line.

If you want to do some of the excursions at the Grand Turk Cruise Center, those need to be purchased through your cruise line. They can’t be purchased any other way.

If you want to go further afield of the cruise port and see what life in Grand Turk is really like, here are some things to see and do:

Visit Cockburn Town

A taxi ride away, this is the capital and seat of government for Turks and Caicos. It is a small coastal settlement on the western side of Grand Turk. It is also the oldest permanent settlement in the country, dating back to  when sea salt producers from Bermuda settled there. The architecture is influenced by the British Colonial Bermudian style. While the town is not extensive, it follows the coastline for about a mile, it is still an interesting place to see. Most of the island’s restaurants are on Duke Street in Cockburn.

Grand Turk Lighthouse

The most famous landmark in the Turks and Caicos is the Grand Turk Lighthouse . The only lighthouse in the country, it was prefabricated in England and brought to the island and assembled in 1852. The lighthouse was erected because so many ships in the early 19th century were wrecking off the northern coast of Grand Turk. While you are not allowed into the lighthouse, the grounds are open. There is also a small snack and gift shop in the house that had been the light-keeper’s residence. There is a scenic coastal path that leads along the top of the marine limestone cliffs of the coastline.

Turks and Caicos National Museum

The museum is open on cruise ship days, and open times are based on the ships arrival and departure times. Small, but fascinating, this is the country’s only museum and is located on Front Street in Cockburn Town.

The main exhibit is the Molasses Reef Wreck. This is the oldest European shipwreck excavated in the western hemisphere. Likely made in either Spain or Portugal, this caravel (a light sailing ship used for long voyages) wrecked on the barrier reef at the edges of the Caicos Banks south of Providenciales.

You will also learn about the indigenous people of Turks and Caicos, the Tainos, also known as the Lucayans. You will also see old Spanish coins, postage stamps, historical flags, primitive diving and wreck salvaging equipment and more.

Head To The Beach

With the exception of the cruise center beach and Boaby Rock Point, you will need to take  a taxi or rent a car to get to the beaches on Grand Turk.

When at any of the beaches on Grand Turk do not:

• Touch fish or coral
• No lifeguards
• No littering
• No open fires

Cruise Center Beach (also known as SunRay Beach)

This beach fronts Grand Turk’s cruise port. There can be large crowds when a ship is in port as it is just steps away. The water in this area is almost always calm and clear.

Boaby Rock Point

Located at the southernmost point of Grand Turk, this secluded beach is within walking distance (⅓ of a mile) of the cruise port. The white sand is interspersed with low rocky outcroppings. There is also good snorkeling here where there are two mid-sized reef systems in shallow water that extend out about 300 feet. Just know that this is not going to be a “pretty” beach because the ocean topography and waves bring up flotsam and seaweed. It also means that you will have much less competition exploring the sands and under the waters.

Governor’s Beach

Between the cruise center and Cockburn Town, this is considered the best beach on Grand Turk. The area is sheltered from the typical east southeast trade winds.

Usually calm, this is not an ideal snorkeling spot, but good for swimming with beautiful views and fewer people than the cruise center beach.

Cockburn Town Beach

This beach is interspersed between jetties and seawalls, so it is a series of small beaches. There can be a bit of surf here when the ocean swell is high. But typically it is calm and easily accessed, just find a spot that suits you. This is not the best sport for snorkeling, though.

There are several other beaches on Grand Turk:

English Point

Pillory Beach

White Sands Beach

East Side Beach

These beaches are either difficult to get to, have rocky beaches or do not offer the best swimming conditions. Some are covered in dense seaweed that makes even a stroll on the beach less than desirable.

Top Tours & Excursions In Grand Turk – Turks & Caicos

Gibbs cay & stingray encounter.

Take a short boat ride to Gibbs Cay, a beautiful uninhabited island, then snorkel and swim with stingrays in its shallow waters and after lounge on the white sandy beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a hike to the top of mountain for some amazing views. ...

• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Activity Level: Moderate

Day at a Small Beach Resort

Avoid the crowds at this small, secluded beach resort. You will be welcomed with a rum punch, pointed to your beach chair where you can relax the day in the white sand and then enjoy a seafood lunch (included)....

• Duration: 2 hours minimum
• Activity Level: Easy

Exclusive Grand Turk Experience

On this small group tour, your knowledgeable guide will show you all the sites of interest in and around Grand Turk such as the US Air Force Base, the Lighthouse, Salt House, among others. ...

• Activity Level: Low

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World Class Diving

Discover the unparalleled diving and rustic charm of Grand Turk, the capital of the Turks & Caicos Islands. The island attracts avid divers eager to experience one of the world’s greatest wall diving meccas, with a drop of nearly 7000 feet. This ‘Mount Everest’ of wall dives is just ¼ mile from the beach on Duke Street. Rent a car or take a leisurely stroll shaded by bougainvillea and yellow elder to fulfill your island exploration. Grand Turk has must-see sites including The 1852 Lighthouse, Philatelic Bureau, St. Thomas Anglican Church (built in 1823), Salt Museum and Cockburn Town which, in addition to Duke, Queen and Front Streets, are lined with restored 18th and 19th century Bermudian style architecture from the Salt Raking era. Behold Guanahani Beach, the site of the monumental first landfall of Christopher Columbus during his voyage to the New World in 1492.

Throughout its history

The collection of historical experiences on Grand Turk continue at the John Glenn Exhibit which depicts the astronaut’s momentous splashdown off the coast of the island in 1962 when Glenn became the first American to orbit earth.

A holiday on Grand Turk is incomplete without visiting the historic Guinep House which is the location of the Turks and Caicos National Museum. The museum houses vivid exhibits which tell the timeline of the Turks and Caicos Islands history from their Lucayan roots through to modern times. The museum also features an exhibit of Molasses Reef Wreck, the oldest known European shipwreck discovered in the Western Hemisphere.

Memorable Vacation in the Island of Grand Turk

When booking your vacation you can choose accommodations from luxury villas, colonial style inns or boutique hotels. You can take a picture with a friendly donkey or enjoy happy hour at a rustic beach shack. Enjoy a swim and picnic at Governor’s Beach which boasts miles of unspoiled shoreline or indulge your adventurous side with an excursion to the nearby Gibbs Cay to feed stingrays. Enjoy the best in Turks and Caicos cuisine at one of the local restaurants and immerse yourself in flavorsome island dining experiences.

The Island was awarded Best Caribbean Beach Port by Porthole Magazine in 2019. The Grand Turk Cruise Center consists of a 3000-foot pier, the welcome facility and the recreational area. On an area of approximately 14 acres, a recreational center includes a swimming pool, 1,000 feet of beachfront, cabanas, shops and the world’s largest Margaritaville, providing food, beverages and Jimmy Buffett memorabilia. The Welcome Center has been designed based on Grand Turk/Bermudian architecture, influenced by the Bermudian influx into the salt industry thriving in the 17th and 18th centuries.

From the remnants of the salt raking industry to the esteemed supremacy of government, the island is the ideal destination to immerse in the best diving, heritage and culture of the Turks and Caicos . You will delight in the old-world allure of the island and its friendly people.

From Grand Turk Blog

The Grand Turk Cruise Center The Grand Turk Cruise Center has been at the epicenter of Tourism for the ‘Beautiful by Nature’ island of Grand Turk, since its opening date in 2006. It is located on the southern end of the island, where it nestles on 18 acres of landscaped grounds and a breath-taking beach...

Sister Island Business Spotlight: Aunty Nann’s Homemade Delights – Grand Turk

By Elisha Jennings  Anyone that knows me, knows that I love supporting locally owned businesses, particularly those operated by young people from the Turks and Caicos Islands. In our first installment of our Sister Island Business Spotlight, we will venture to the Turks and Caicos Islands capital – Grand Turk. I was first introduced to Aunty...

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Cruise Center Beach

The ocean at the Cruise Center Beach is almost always calm and clear, and the majority of the coastline is clean soft sand. There are a few rocky spots, but these are easily avoided.

As to be expected, this beach can get quite crowded in the vicinity of the Cruise Center when a ship is present. However, there’s always more space further up the beach to the north. To the north is Governor's Beach .

As with all beaches in the Turks and Caicos, access is free. Complimentary beach lounger use is also offered near the Cruise Center for cruise guests. Be advised that some beach hawkers attempt to rent their own chairs out.

The Cruise Center Beach is located on the leeward side of Grand Turk, so ocean conditions are typically excellent. See Turks and Caicos Weather Forecast .

Beach Rentals and Loungers

Snorkel masks, fins, and vests, floats and toys, and covered shade beach cabanas can be rented from the Cruise Center beach rentals shack.

The standard beach loungers are free-to-use, although the density of loungers fronting the Cruise Center is quite high.

Up the beach to the north, additional loungers can be found fronting Jack's Shack restaurant. This section of the beach tends to be less crowded.

The Cruise Center Beach is part of the Columbus Landfall National Park .

Snorkeling isn’t great here, but rock and coral patches can be found off the coast both to the north and south of the main pier and are home to small amounts of fish. Simply head south past the smaller Cruise Center shore excursions pier and look for the darker patches of ocean.

A small reef can be found off the beach 0.5 miles (0.8 km) south of the Cruise Center near Boaby Rock Point . When weather conditions are calm, decent snorkeling can be found here.

Snorkeling equipment can be hired from the beach rentals stand at the Grand Turk Cruise Center .

Dining and Restaurants

There are two restaurants within easy walking access of the Cruise Center Beach: Margaritaville , Starbucks (the only one in the Turks and Caicos), and Jack's Shack . Both establishments serve international favorites and bar food.

As is also the case with the Cruise Center itself, the restaurants tend to be quite crowded when a ship is in port. If you plan to rent a car and explore Grand Turk, consider dining at one of the Cockburn Town restaurants if you’re looking for a bit more tranquility.